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Charred Wood Shingles and Thermal Glazing in a Compact Lakeside Dwelling

Authors:
Norman Fisher, Norman Fisher
Charred Wood Shingles and Thermal Glazing in a Compact Lakeside Dwelling

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood for its façade and expansive thermal glazing, the compact dwelling harmonizes with its lakeside setting while offering an efficient space for modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to enhance structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for rapid construction and sustainability.
04
Employs extensive thermal glazing to maximize natural light and energy efficiency.
05
Located near a lakeshore, creating seamless integration with the natural environment.

### Project Overview

The Microhome is situated adjacent to a serene lake, encompassing a design that emphasizes the interplay between modern living and the natural environment. The intent is to create a residential space that fosters both aesthetic appeal and ecological sustainability, facilitating a strong connection between occupants and the outdoors. With a focus on maximizing natural light and carefully considered spatial relationships, the design reflects the harmonious coexistence of human habitation and nature.

### Spatial Organization

The layout of the Microhome is compact yet strategically organized to promote openness and light throughout the interior. The ground floor contains a multifunctional kitchen and living area, featuring an open plan that encourages social interaction while integrating views of the surrounding landscape. The mezzanine level is dedicated to the sleeping area, providing a sense of privacy while maintaining a connection to the communal spaces below. At the roof level, vantage points are designed to enhance stargazing and appreciation of the natural vistas. Large glass surfaces serve to merge indoor and outdoor environments, facilitating a continuous experience with the external landscape.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices are pivotal in the Microhome’s design, with each selected for its aesthetic quality, functionality, and sustainability attributes. Key materials include silicone jointed structural glazing for thermal efficiency, Kingspan QuadCore insulated panels for energy performance, and engineered hardwood for durability and warmth. Concrete pier foundations ensure stability while minimizing environmental impact, and timber stud wall framing promotes sustainable forestry practices. The integration of smart technology further enhances energy efficiency, reducing waste and supporting a low-carbon footprint through the use of locally sourced materials.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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